VCM Camera Module Vibration Noise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vibration from a vibrating motor in mobile devices causes noise in camera modules with Voice Coil Motors (VCM) due to their structural exposure and fixation using springs, leading to unwanted shaking and noise generation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a vibration sensor to transmit vibration signals to a VCM driver, applying a reverse bias to the VCM to exert an electromagnetic force in a reverse direction, fixing and halting the actuator to control noise, involving a level converter, switching units, and a constant-current source circuit to manage the VCM operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the VCM camera module uses a spring for fixation to enable auto-focusing movement, then the lens barrel can move freely for focusing, but vibration from the vibrating motor causes the module to shake against peripheral structures generating noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a counter-force mechanism using the VCM coil and permanent magnet to generate an electromagnetic force that opposes the vibration-induced shaking. The coil, when energized in reverse direction, creates a magnetic field that exerts a counteracting force on the permanent magnet, thereby canceling the harmful vibration effects while maintaining the spring's focusing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful vibration effects into a beneficial counter-action by using the same VCM electromagnetic system that performs focusing to also generate anti-vibration forces. The vibration sensor detects the harmful vibrations, and the VCM driver uses the coil-magnet system to generate an opposing force, turning the vibration problem into a controlled counter-vibration solution.
2Device complexity
If the VCM camera module is exposed to external vibrations from the vibrating motor, then the module structure remains simple, but the spring fixation causes unwanted shaking and noise generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the VCM system multi-functional by using the same coil and permanent magnet arrangement for both auto-focusing and vibration compensation. The spring continues to provide focusing movement, while the VCM electromagnetic system additionally provides vibration counter-action, eliminating the need for separate vibration isolation mechanisms and maintaining structural simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If the lens barrel is fixed using a spring to allow focusing movement, then the camera can auto-focus effectively, but vibration causes the lens barrel to shake and run against peripheral structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control to the previously static spring fixation system. The VCM driver actively adjusts the electromagnetic force in real-time based on vibration sensor feedback, dynamically counteracting vibrations while allowing the spring to maintain its focusing functionality. This dynamic adjustment prevents the lens barrel from shaking against peripheral structures during vibration events.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively reduces noise caused by vibrations from the vibrating motor, ensuring stable camera module operation by fixing the actuator during mechanical vibrations, thus enhancing image quality and reducing unwanted noise.
Implementation Method 1
Vibration from a vibrating motor in mobile devices causes noise in camera modules with Voice Coil Motors (VCM)
Implementation Method 2
applying, by the VCM driver, a reverse bias to a VCM upon receiving the vibration signal from the vibration sensor, and exerting, by the VCM to which the reverse bias is applied, an electromagnetic force in a reverse direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for controlling noise caused by vibration in a camera module for a mobile device are provided. The method includes transmitting a vibration signal sensed by a vibration sensor to a Choice Coil Motor (VCM) driver based on the vibration signal, applying, by the VCM driver, a reverse bias to a VCM upon receiving, by the VCM driver, the vibration signal from the vibration sensor, and exerting, by the VCM to which the reverse bias is applied, an electromagnetic force in a reverse direction in order to fix and halt an actuator.